Darlene Bushue has always enjoyed taking photos, but it wasn’t until after her first trip to the Canadian Rockies in 2003, that she felt the intense gravitational pull of being in the mountains, that photography became a full-time hobby for her.

Since that trip, Bushue has devoted much of her free time to capturing images of landscapes and wildlife wherever she travels. She describes her photography as “a visual celebration of the natural world’s beauty and wonders.”

Bushue shares that through the lens, she “strives to capture and convey the essence of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitats, as well as the stunning landscapes that surround us. Each photograph is a unique story frozen in time, depicting the raw emotions, captivating moments, and hidden intricacies of nature.”

But her photography is not only about documenting animals and landscapes. “It’s a form of storytelling that connects people with the awe-inspiring diversity and fragility of our planet. With every shot, I aim to evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the intricate ecosystems that sustain life and inspire a desire to protect and preserve these precious environments,” says Bushue.

She continues, “Whether it’s an intimate portrait of a majestic creature, a sweeping vista of a breathtaking landscape, or a rare moment captured in the wild, my art invites viewers to immerse themselves in the natural world and witness its extraordinary beauty. Through my work, I hope to ignite a passion for conservation, encouraging others to become stewards of our planet and its precious inhabitants.”

Bushue also states, “Ultimately, my photography is a testament to the power of nature, serving as a reminder of its resilience, grandeur, and delicate balance. It is my way of sharing the profound connections that exist between humans and the wild, fostering a deeper appreciation for the invaluable gift of nature that surrounds us all.”

The “sheer magnificence and complexity of the natural world” is Bushue’s inspiration for creating art via photography in the realms of wildlife and landscape photography. “Nature is an endless source of inspiration, constantly revealing its beauty and secrets in ways that captivate my imagination.”

Several aspects of nature and wildlife are part of Bushue’s inspiration. She further explains the beauty of the natural world: “The world is filled with breathtaking landscapes and fascinating wildlife, each possessing its own unique charm. The ever-changing colors of the sky during sunrise and sunset, the intricate patterns on a butterfly’s wings, and the graceful movements of a soaring eagle – these moments of beauty in nature inspire me to capture and share them with others.”

Bushue doesn’t only see beauty in nature, she feels it. “Being in nature is a deeply grounding and spiritual experience for me. The sights, sounds, and smells of the wilderness create a profound sense of connection to the world around me. Through my art, I aim to convey this connection and help others experience the same sense of wonder and belonging.”

The purpose of Bushue’s wildlife and nature photography goes beyond the colors, lighting, and subjects. It is also about sending a more profound message. I believe art, especially photography, can be a powerful tool for conservation and environmental awareness.

“By showcasing the beauty and diversity of the natural world, I hope to inspire others to appreciate and protect it. Raising awareness about endangered species, fragile ecosystems, and environmental issues becomes a vital part of my creative mission.”

For Bushue, photography is also an opportunity to “freeze moments that are often fleeting or hidden from the human eye. Whether it’s the split-second interaction between animals or the subtle changes in a landscape over time, capturing these moments is like preserving a piece of history and sharing it with the world.”

Creativity and expression are other aspects of Bushue’s talent and creativity. As an artist, photography gives me a medium to express my creativity and emotions. I can use composition, lighting, and various techniques to create powerful and evocative images that convey the feelings and emotions I experience when immersed in nature.

“Wildlife and landscape photography can be challenging, requiring patience, observation, and technical skills. I find joy in overcoming these challenges and continuously learning and improving my craft. Each new experience in the field brings valuable lessons that enrich both my art and my understanding of the natural world,” confesses Bushue.

Bushue’s also inspired when others resonate with her work and “find joy, inspiration, or a renewed connection to nature through my art. It brings a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose to my creative journey. Knowing that my photographs can make a positive impact on people’s lives motivates me to continue creating and sharing my art.”

The “profound love and appreciation for the wonders of the natural world, coupled with a desire to use photography as a medium for storytelling, awareness, and conservation,” are most influential in Bushue’s art.

“Through my lens, I hope to inspire others to see the world with new eyes, fostering a sense of wonder and stewardship for the incredible planet we call home.”

Darlene Bushue’s art is displayed at The Old Gallery in Allenspark. You can see Darlene Bushue’s art on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/darlenebushuephotography or you can give her a call at 618-444- 7736.

Sign up as an artist or sponsor for The Mountain-Ear’s Studio Tour September 22-24, 2023, at www.themtnear.com/peak-to-peak-studio-tour-2023/.